Lodge Manager

Bright Search Recruitment (Pty) Ltd; Ballito; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

Bright Search Recruitment (Pty) Ltd is seeking a seasoned Lodge Manager for luxury safari lodges in Ballito. You will oversee operations, guest relations, staff leadership, budgeting, and safety compliance to ensure exceptional guest experiences.

The ideal candidate has extensive hospitality leadership experience in high-end properties, strong financial acumen, and the ability to manage multiple departments under pressure. This on-site role offers a dynamic, guest-focused environment.

Qualifications

• Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Hospitality, Hotel, Tourism, or Business Management.
• Leadership, Business Management, or Wildlife Tourism qualifications are advantageous.
• Health & Safety and First Aid certifications are beneficial.

Skills

Leadership

People management

Guest service

Communication

Financial management

Budgeting

Operational planning

PMS software

Microsoft Office

Problem solving

Multidepartment management

Education

Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality/Hotel/Tourism/Business Management

Tools

Property Management Systems (PMS)

Hotel software

Job description

Minimum Qualifications

Diploma or Bachelor's Degree in Hospitality Management, Hotel Management, Tourism Management, Business Management, or a related field. Additional qualifications in Leadership, Business Management, or Wildlife Tourism are advantageous. Health & Safety and First Aid certifications are beneficial.

Experience

Minimum of 58 years' experience in the hospitality industry. At least 3 years' experience in a Lodge Manager, Operations Manager, or Senior Management role. Previous experience within luxury safari lodges, game reserves, boutique hotels, or five-star hospitality establishments is highly desirable. Experience managing multiple departments and diverse teams. Proven experience in budgeting, financial management, and operational planning.

Knowledge

Luxury lodge and hospitality operations. Guest relations and service excellence. Food & Beverage operations. Housekeeping and maintenance management. Financial management and budgeting. Stock control and procurement. Health, safety, environmental, and food safety regulations. Labour legislation and human resource management. Property Management Systems (PMS) and hotel software.

Skills & Competencies

Strong leadership and people management skills. Excellent organisational and operational planning abilities. Exceptional guest service and communication skills. Financial and commercial acumen. Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities. Ability to manage multiple departments effectively. Excellent conflict resolution and interpersonal skills. High attention to detail and quality standards. Computer literacy, including Microsoft Office and Property Management Systems (PMS). Ability to perform effectively under pressure.

Personal Attributes

Professional, confident, and approachable. Passionate about hospitality and guest satisfaction. Strong leadership presence with the ability to inspire and motivate teams. Honest, reliable, and accountable. Calm and composed in high-pressure situations. Flexible, adaptable, and solutions-oriented. High level of integrity and professionalism. Committed to continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Additional Requirements

Valid driver's licence. Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends and public holidays. Ability to reside on-site if required. Physically fit and able to move throughout the lodge and surrounding grounds. No criminal record. Eligible to work in the country of employment.